51 



CDuLT "Winte^ir Birds. 



The bird life in winter is very interesting, and the 

 various members which constitute the band left with 

 us after the departure of their summer friends, receive 

 more notice as a general rule, because so many have 

 disappeared, and because during the winter season there 

 are not so many other attractions. How cheering it is 

 — when the fields are bare and brown, and the trees 

 destitute of their rich verdure — to see some active, 

 happy member of the bird family busily engaged in 

 gathering food, and, ever and anon pouring out a song 

 which leads the wandering mind of the observer back 

 to summer days of pleasure. In the depth of winter 

 summer still lives, which saying is verified by our see- 

 ing and hearing many instances of active life. Many 

 of our winter birds depend upon the seeds of various 

 weeds for a subsistence, and should these be inaccessi- 

 ble they often experience great want for food. In such 

 instances many species which are otherwise shy, become 

 quite tame, and may often be seen flying around our 

 houses, seeking aid, which we should readily grant 

 them. Others again feed pretty much upon crumbs 

 which they find around our homes. During mild sun- 

 ny days we are often greeted with the clear notes of the 

 Field Sparrow (Spizella Pusilla), which generally re- 

 mains with us throughout the year. Also others very 

 seldom seen during the cold weather, suddenly make 

 their appearance upon these spring-like days. Where 

 fchey take up their abode, or upon what they feed during 

 their concealment is a mystery to some. The Wagtail 



